Batavia Parks Foundation, Encore Batavia to host pop-up scavenger hunt, information-gathering event for intergenerational playgrounds

BATAVIA – Volunteers from the Batavia Parks Foundation and Encore Batavia are co-hosting a pop-up scavenger hunt and information-gathering event on Sunday, April 18, to gain neighborhood insight into the development of intergenerational playgrounds at two Batavia parks, according to a news release.

Intergenerational playgrounds, also known as multigenerational playgrounds, are designed specifically to encourage parents and grandparents to play with children and are structured to enhance that shared form of play. Swing sets,for example, are designed to accommodate young children through older adults, and shaded seated or picnic areas are juxtaposed to create comfortable places on which to rest while children are playing, the release stated.

The scavenger hunts and idea-sharing sessions are scheduled from 1 to 3 p.m. at Hawk’s Bluff Park, 950 Twin Elms Lane, and Laurelwood Park, 800 N. River St.

“Encore Batavia and the Batavia Parks Foundation invite Batavians of all ages to participate in our ‘Pop-Up in the Parks’ event to share ideas of what intergenerational features you might like to see in the future,” Encore Batavia Founder Britta McKenna said in the release.

Individuals and family teams will receive a map of each park with clues to the locations where bricks are hidden. Each brick will reveal a letter in the mystery word, and answers can be turned in for small treats and entered for the chance to win a “family fun bundle” of goodies.

Participants are asked to share their thoughts on amenities they would like to see in these intergenerational playgrounds. Registration is required, but the event is free.

“Get out and enjoy spring with our free, socially distanced family scavenger hunts at Hawk’s Bluff and Laurelwood parks. We’ll have small prizes for participating and a drawing entry for those who solve our hidden word puzzle,” said Sarah Ryerson, secretary of the Batavia Parks Foundation, in the release.

Participants are asked to wear masks and practice social distancing while at each park.

For more information, contact Britta McKenna at 630-981-1350 or brittawmckenna@gmail.com, or Sarah Ryerson at ryeguy723@gmail.com.